Introduction
“Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” is a disco anthem by Swedish pop group ABBA, released on October 12, 1979, as part of their album Greatest Hits Vol. 2. Composed by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with Agnetha Fältskog delivering the lead vocals, the track captures a yearning for companionship amidst the solitude of night. The song’s signature riff was crafted using the ARP Odyssey synthesizer, contributing to its distinctive sound. Notably, the song was inspired by Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff,” leading to a shared theme of late-night longing in both tracks.
Upon its release, “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” achieved commercial success, topping charts in Belgium, Finland, France, Ireland, and Switzerland, and reaching the top 10 in several other countries. In the United States and Canada, the single was edited to a shorter length, differing from the international version. The song’s enduring popularity led to its inclusion in the 2008 film adaptation of Mamma Mia!, where it was featured as part of the soundtrack.
Over the years, “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” has been covered and remixed by various artists, including Cher in 2018 and Rina Sawayama in 2022, who received ABBA’s approval to use the melody in her song “This Hell.” The track’s influence extends beyond music, having been sampled by Madonna in her 2005 hit “Hung Up,” showcasing its lasting impact on pop culture.
ABBA’s contribution to music was recently recognized when they were awarded the Royal Order of Vasa in 2024 for their outstanding efforts in Swedish and international music.